On the previous episode of Dry Powder, Ian Charles, managing partner at Arctos Sports Partners, took us inside his approach to sports investing. It was a master class in sector specialization and value creation that you don’t want to miss, but Ian has always tended to go after nonobvious opportunities.“I grew up in a small town in Alaska,” he says. “One of the things that you always heard as a kid was if you go out on the frozen lake, make sure you’re not around too many of your friends. It’s actually safer to be all alone.”Today on the show, I ask Ian how he helped bring about a series of innovations in the secondaries market at Arctos, which launched a new strategy this week expanding into broader private markets. We’ll reflect on the creative transaction structures that have made secondaries more accessible and efficient.I've also started a series of weekly posts on LinkedIn, which you can follow here.

Ian Charles, co-founder of Arctos, dives into the sports investment revolution, highlighting their portfolio that includes Liverpool FC and the Boston Red Sox. He discusses the surge of new investors and the economic dynamics behind major sports franchises. Ian emphasizes the role of data in decision-making, the impact of fan engagement, and the barriers to profitable growth. He also explores the contrasting investment landscapes of North American leagues vs. European football, shedding light on strategic partnerships and the future of sports finance.

Todd Boley, Co-founder of Eldridge Industries, shares insights on the booming sports investment market. Michelle Troni from Zinnia discusses how technology can transform the life insurance landscape, making processes more efficient. Ian Charles highlights the rise of sports as a lucrative asset class, while John Taft and financial commentators Josh Brown and Joe Terranova provide valuable perspectives on market trends and alternative investments. The conversation delves into the impact of current economic factors and the importance of diversification in investment strategies.